I joined Letchworth Sinfonia about 5 years ago and play 2nd Violin. I hadn't played the violin since leaving school so I was rather nervous about joining an orchestra. I was made to feel very welcome and it also helped that another member (Helen) started the same day as me - we sit together at the back of the section and help each other along. Over the last 5 years we feel we've improved in leaps and bounds and seem to be able to play more & more notes of the music with each rehearsal - not necessarily in the right place or the right time:D! (I'm sure Kerry would agree with this!) Both Helen & I love to sneak out during the hard parts to make the tea at rehearsal - which is enjoyed by all members of the orchestra - actually i'm not sure if it's the tea they enjoy or us not playing..hmm I'll have to ask them!

I was invited to join the committee which I did and help with the publicity for the concerts and help to try to promote the orchestra to new members, as after living in Letchworth for 20 years I didn't even realise they had an orchestra and it was only by chance that I came accross a poster advertising the New Year concert at Plinston Hall. I went to the concert and was very pleasantly surprised as the standard was great and they put on a wonderful New Year concert.

I really enjoy being part of this orchestra and it is currently the only music group I play in due to work and family commitments, hopefully this will change in years to come. I do think I play in the best section of the orchestra (2nds) (Mel will agree with this although he now plays in the 1st section), with Jean, Arthur, Helen and Elizabeth - we always help each other through the tricky parts.

Just goes to show it's never too late to start playing music again and loving it!

I have been a keen supporter of the Letchworth Sinfonia since Amanda joined about five years ago. In the past I have helped out at the front of house on concert days and have been asked to help Amanda create this website.